Salihu Ali, Kano
The Kano State Government and the Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) have called for stronger adoption of open-source technologies as a pathway to Nigeria’s and Africa’s digital future.
The call was made at an event marking Software Freedom Day (SFD), which CITAD organised to promote the use of Free and Open-Source Software (FOSS).
The Kano State Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Yusuf Ibrahim, represented by a senior official, Usman Bello Bari, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting open-source initiatives.
He noted that collaborations with institutions like CITAD, academia, private sector players, and developer communities would help build an enabling environment where open technologies can thrive.
“The exhibition by youths is more than a showcase of talent. It is a bold statement about the power of open-source software to transform communities, strengthen digital sovereignty, and fuel homegrown innovation,” he said.
He stressed that open-source solutions provide inclusive and sustainable pathways to digital growth by empowering local developers, reducing reliance on proprietary systems, and fostering collaborative ecosystems.
Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Kano State Governor on Digital Economy, Yusuf Ibrahim, described technology adoption as the most effective tool for advancing development.
From CITAD, Ibrahim Nuhu highlighted why software freedom is crucial for Africa’s digital independence.
He explained that FOSS is not only about free tools but also about empowering individuals and communities to build a digitally self-reliant and prosperous future.
“The core benefit of open source is its flexibility, allowing users to adapt software to their own needs,” Nuhu said, adding that parents, students, government officials, and communities all have a role to play in embracing the culture of software freedom.
He encouraged innovators and programmers to develop open-source solutions as a way of bridging the gaps created by closed systems.
The event featured exhibitions by young innovators showcasing various open-source projects.
Observed annually on the third Saturday of September, Software Freedom Day is a global celebration of FOSS aimed at raising awareness of its benefits in fostering inclusive, open, and collaborative digital societies.